Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Table of Contents

Components:

Regarding the Crust:

1 1/2 cups of crushed graham cracker crumbs (about ten graham crackers)
1/4 cup of sugar, granulated
Half a cup of melted unsalted butter

For filling the cheesecake:

16 ounces (two packages) softened cream cheese
One cup of sugar granules
Two huge eggs
One teaspoon of vanilla cream
1/4 cup of optional sour cream (for added creaminess)

Regarding the strawberry garnish:

One pound of fresh strawberries, cut and hulled
Two tablespoons of powdered sugar
One tablespoon of lemon juice (optional; adds a pop of flavor)

Directions:

1. Get the crust ready:

Set the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the melted butter, sugar, and graham cracker crumbs.
Press the mixture onto the bottom of a 9 x 9-inch baking dish (or pan of comparable size) that has been oiled. Evenly press it down to create a firm crust.
After ten minutes of baking, take the crust out of the oven and allow it to cool while you make the cheesecake filling.

2. Prepare the filling for the cheesecake:

Using an electric mixer, whip the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until it becomes creamy and smooth.
Beat in the sugar until thoroughly blended.
Beat thoroughly after adding each egg one at a time. Add the vanilla extract and stir.
Add the sour cream, if using, and stir until the filling is smooth.
Evenly cover the chilled graham cracker shell with the cheesecake filling.

3. Put the cheesecake bars in the oven:

The cheesecake should be baked for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is firm but still has some give. The margins ought to have a hint of gold.
To avoid breaking, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly open for approximately an hour while the cheesecake cools within.
Once the bars are completely cold and set, place them in the refrigerator for at least three hours or overnight.

4. Prepare the topping with strawberries:

Sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice (if used) should all be combined in a small bowl. Coat the strawberries with the juice and sugar by tossing them. Allow them to macerate and release their juices for 15 to 20 minutes.
Once the cheesecake has cooled, equally distribute the macerated strawberries on top of the bars of cheesecake.

5. Offer:

After cutting the cheesecake into squares, serve it cold.

These bars of strawberry cheesecake are sweet, creamy, and reviving. The buttery crust and rich cheesecake filling go well with the fresh strawberry topping, which gives a taste explosion. They’re perfect for a small indulgence or a large gathering! Have fun!